Course Catalog 2008-2009
Associate Professor Warren D. Hauk, Chair
Professors Tom D. Schultz, Eric C. Liebl; Associate Professors Warren D. Hauk, Kristina S. Mead, Jessica E. Rettig, Geoffrey R. Smith; Assistant Professors Rebecca N. Homan, Andrew C. McCall, Heather J. Rhodes, Laura A. Romano, Jeffrey S. Thompson, Christine L. Weingart, Lina I. Yoo; Visiting Assistant Professor James S. Marshall; Visiting Assistant Professor of Biology/Neuroscience Caroline Wilson; Academic Secretary Jenny Etz
The Department of Biology endeavors to provide a comprehensive foundation in concepts and skills across the breadth of biology through an introductory core of three courses that prepares students for a deep exploration of sub-disciplines and research methods through subsequent advanced courses. The core covers the major concepts of biology and basic skills of acquiring and processing information, problem solving, and analyzing data. Our program then allows students the flexibility to explore specific areas of biology in depth through a suite of advanced courses in which they can expand and apply their knowledge and skills.
The major prepares students for graduate and professional schools (including pre-medical, pre-dental and pre-veterinary studies), while allowing students the flexibility to design the program that best suits their specific interests and career goals. In addition, biology majors are offered the opportunity to collaborate with faculty in research and laboratory instruction; to present exceptional work at professional meetings; and to participate in the management of the 350-acre Biological Reserve. Related programs in Medicine, Dentistry, Medical Technology, Forestry and Natural Resources are described under Pre-Professional Programs.
Requirements for Biology Majors. Students majoring in Biology (B.A. or B.S.) should complete the three Biology core courses, Introduction to the Science of Biology (150), Cell and Molecular Biology (201) and Ecology and Evolution (202) by the end of their second year. In addition, the major requires five or six (depending on the degree sought) 300-level advanced courses, one of which must be designated a "diversity" course. Advanced Senior Research (452) and Advanced Honors Research (462) are credited as 300-level courses. Any combination of advanced courses may be taken to provide a concentrated preparation in a specific discipline or a broader survey of advanced topics. Minor Problems (350), Directed Study (361, 362), Independent Study (363, 364), and Senior Research (451) or Honors Research (461) will not be counted as 300-level advanced courses toward the requirements for majors. It is strongly recommended that majors consult with a Biology advisor in order to design the most appropriate suite of advanced courses for that student.
Satisfactory completion of BIOL-300, Biology Assessment I by participation in the department's core curriculum assessment exam, and satisfactory completion of BIOL-301, Biology Assessment II by participation in the senior interview are requirements of the major in Biology.
Bachelor of Arts in Biology. The requirements for the Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology consist of the three core courses (Biology 150, 201, 202), five 300-level biology courses (one of which must be a designated "diversity" course), and one year of General Chemistry (Chemistry 121-122). Minor Problems (350), Directed Study (361, 362), Independent Study (363, 364) and Senior Research (451) or Honors Research (461) will not be counted as 300-level advanced courses.
Bachelor of Science in Biology. The requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree in Biology consist of the three core courses (Biology 150, 201, 202), six 300-level biology courses (one of which must be designated a "diversity" course), one year of General Chemistry (Chemistry 121-122) and five additional courses in mathematics or science. Minor Problems (350), Directed Study (361, 362), Independent Study (363, 364) and Senior Research (451) or Honors Research (461) will not be counted as 300-level advanced courses. Students pursuing a B.S. in biology increase their experience in biology and become more broadly trained in the sciences. Thus these students fulfill the B.S. by taking an additional biology course beyond the requirement for a B.A. and by taking five additional non-biology science or math courses, with no more than three taken in a single department. Because the B.S. trains students more liberally as scientists, students are encouraged to fulfill these non-biology courses by selecting classes that "do" science, such as classes that include laboratories. However, any non-biology course within the science division or any environmental studies (ENVS) science course will fulfill the B.S. requirement. Biology majors preparing for medical school or most graduate programs are advised to take Organic Chemistry (Chemistry 223-224), General Physics (Physics 121-122), and Calculus (Math 121 or 123).
The Biology Minor consists of six courses in Biology. All students electing a minor in Biology must complete the three core courses (Biology 150, 201, 202) plus one semester of chemistry (Chem 121) and three additional 300-level courses (excluding Senior Research or Advanced Senior Research). Minor Problems (350), Directed Study (361, 362) and Independent Study (363, 364) will not be counted as 300-level advanced courses. One of these 300-level courses must be a designated "diversity" course.
Students may complement their major in biology through study off-campus. Denison University is a member of several consortia that offer course credit through off-campus programs. Those with course offerings relevant to Biology students include: the School for Field Studies, the SEA Semester, the Organization of Tropical Studies, the Duke University Marine Laboratory, the Semester in Environmental Science, the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the Institute for Study Abroad, Denmark's International Study Program, and the Associated Colleges of the Midwest Wilderness Field Station. The Department of Biology is committed to awarding credit for courses offered through these programs that provide a sufficient focus on biological concepts and methods (lecture and laboratory). With prior approval from the department, a maximum of two off-campus courses may be credited as advanced electives and counted toward the requirements of the major. The Richard C. and Linda G. Seale Scholarship provides support to qualified Denison students for participation in summer courses at the Duke University Marine Laboratory. Financial aid may be available for other off-campus programs.
Diversity Courses. The 300-level biology courses designated as diversity courses are: BIOL-312 Herpetology, BIOL-313 Vertebrate Zoology, BIOL-320 Plant Systematics, BIOL-326 Plant Evolution & Reproduction, BIOL-327 Biology of Insects.
Courses for Non-Majors. Non-majors are invited to take Modern Topics in Biology (100 or 103), courses designed to explore scientific inquiry and biological concepts through specific topics in the instructor's area of expertise. Introduction to the Science of Biology (150) may be taken to fulfill the Science General Education requirement, but it is highly recommended that such students have some prior experience in science. Students with Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate credit in Biology may receive credit for Biology 100 without General Education credit. In addition, students who have had extensive biology training in secondary school may petition the Biology department for Biology 100 credit without General Education credit. However, such petitions must be made before the completion of the student's third year at Denison.
Biology and Environmental Studies. Students with an interest in both Biology and Environmental Studies may pursue a major in Biology with a minor in Environmental Studies, or a major in Environmental Studies with a concentration in biology. Students are advised to choose the programmatic path that best suits their post-graduate goals, and to seek early consultation with faculty in Biology and/or Environmental Studies.
Biology and Neuroscience. Students with an interest in both Biology and Neuroscience may pursue a major in Biology with a concentration in Neuroscience. Students interested in this option should consult with a faculty member early in their career.
Modern Topics in Biology (BIOL-100). This course for non-majors is intended to promote scientific literacy. Topics will vary with the instructor, but each edition of the course will focus on a specific topic as a vehicle for exploring the essentials of biology and the scientific method. This course satisfies the G.E. lab science requirement. Biology 100 may not be counted toward the major in biology. Three class periods and one laboratory weekly. 4
Modern Topics in Biology (BIOL-103). This course for non-majors is intended to promote scientific literacy and quantitative reasoning. Topics vary with the instructor, but each edition of the course will focus on a specific topic as a vehicle for exploring the essentials of biology and the scientific method. This course satisfies the G.E. lab science requirement as well as the quantitative reasoning requirement. Biology 103 may not be counted toward the major in biology. Three class periods and one laboratory weekly. 4
Introduction to the Science of Biology (BIOL-150). This course is the first biology course biology majors take. It is a course that introduces students to core concepts of modern biology through active participation in biological investigations. Topics include reproduction, Darwinian evolution, energetics, organisms' response to stimuli, and organismal structure and function. Imbedded throughout the course are many of the skills expected of practicing biologists including the ability to develop hypotheses and analyze and interpret data, the ability to present scientific data, scientific writing, and a familiarity with the scientific literature. This course satistifes the Quantitative Reasoning requirement. Three class periods and one laboratory weekly. 4
Introductory Topics in Biology (BIOL-199). A general category used only in the evaluation of transfer credit. 1-4
Cell and Molecular Biology (BIOL-201). A study of the living state at the molecular level. Such topics as the basic morphology of cells, the nature of macromolecules, respiration and energetics, and permeability theories are considered. The basic nature of genetic information in cells and viruses, its duplication, its role in protein syntheses and molecular control mechanisms are also discussed. Prerequisite: BIOL 150 or Consent of Instructor. Chemistry 121 pre- or co-requisite. Three class periods and one laboratory weekly. Safety glasses required. 4
Ecology and Evolution (BIOL-202). This course explores the fundamental concepts of ecology and evolution and integrates them in a study of the interactions between organisms and their environment and how those interactions shape the history of life on Earth. With a thorough understanding of population genetics and natural selection, this course addresses ecological questions at the level of the individual, population, community and ecosystem. A common thread that binds the course is the role of deterministic and stochastic processes in shaping ecological systems and macroevolutionary patterns. Prerequisite: BIOL 150 or Consent of Instructor. Three class periods and one laboratory weekly. 4
Minor Problems (BIOL-250). A research problem (library or laboratory) of limited scope which provides the opportunity for the qualified student to extend his or her interest beyond the limits of particular course offerings. Does not count toward minimal department requirements. 1 or 2
Intermediate Topics in Biology (BIOL-299). A general category used only in the evaluation of transfer credit. 1-4
Biology Assessment I (BIOL-300). A pass/fail course used to track all biology majors' completion of the required assessment exam covering the Biology core. Earning the required S (pass) in this course entails attending an information session explaining the exam and taking the assessment exam in good faith. 0
Biology Assessment II (BIOL-301). A pass/fail course used to track all biology major's completion of the required senior interview. Earning the required S (pass) in this course entails attending an information session explaining the biology department's senior interview and completing the senior interview in good faith. 0
Biochemistry (BIOL-302). A study of the chemical and physiochemical properties of living organisms. Concepts will be developed through a study of the physical and chemical properties of biological compounds and integration of various metabolic pathways in an attempt to understand the dynamics of living systems. The laboratory will include the isolation and study of properties of biological compounds. Prerequisites: 224 and Biology 201. The department strongly recommends that students enrolling in this course have earned a grade of C or higher in Organic Chemistry II (CHEM 224) and Molecular Biology (BIOL 201). Offered in the fall semester (also as Biology 302). Three class periods weekly plus laboratory. Safety glasses required. 4
Biodiversity Through Time (BIOL-308). An introduction to the study of fossil invertebrates with emphasis on preservation, taphonomy, diversity trajectories through geologic time, evolutionary mechanisms, extinction, paleobiology and paleoecology. Special emphasis will be placed on using fossils to interpret ancient depositional environments. Labs will introduce the student to the major invertebrate phyla commonly preserved in the geologic rock record. Prerequisite: GEOS 210 or BIOL 202. (Normally offered Fall Semester in alternate years) 4
Wetland Ecology (BIOL-310). This course is a comprehensive study of wetland ecology, management, and policy. The main emphasis is on biological, chemical, and physical aspects of major wetland ecosystems found in North America. The course also deals with valuation, classification, and delineation of wetlands. A significant portion of the course focuses on local and regional wetland ecosystems: their history, ecology, and current status. Labs will be field-based explorations of the biology, chemistry, and ecology of these regional wetlands. Prerequisite: BIOL 202 or consent. 4
Herpetology (BIOL-312). Herpetology is the study of amphibians and reptiles, two diverse taxonomic groups that share the characteristic of being ectothermic vertebrates. This course will examine three main areas of herpetology: 1) the evolutionary relationships and biogeographical histories of these taxonomic groups, 2) comparative physiology, and adaptations of amphibians and reptiles to their natural environments, and 3) the ecology of the herpetofauna, as well as conservation issues, with a focus on amphibians. Emphasis will be placed on the critical reading of primary literature on both historical and current issues in herpetology, as well as on gaining hands-on experiences with amphibians and reptiles. Laboratories will include comparative studies of physiology and field studies of native Ohio amphibians and reptiles, making extensive use of the Denison University Biological Reserve. Prerequisites: Biology core or consent. Herpetology qualifies as a "diversity" course for the major. 4
Vertebrate Zoology (BIOL-313). In this course we investigate the biology of vertebrates. In particular, we will be considering the many ways in which vertebrates interact with and respond to their environment, and thus this course will emphasize the evolution, ecology, and physiology of vertebrates. Laboratories will focus on the biology of local vertebrates, and will consist of field and laboratory exercises, as well as field research projects. We will make extensive use of the Denison University Biological Reserve. Prerequisite: Biology core or consent. Vertebrate Zoology qualifies as a "diversity" course for the major. This course satisfies the Oral Communication requirement. (Not offered 2008-2009) 4
General Microbiology (BIOL-315). This is an introductory course in microbiology emphasizing the general structure, occurrence, habitats, and types of bacteria, viruses, and eukaryotic microbes. Mechanisms of pathogenicity and host defense strategies are also discussed. The course structure includes small group activities, reading primary literature, and case study discussions. Laboratory emphasis is placed on the fundamental techniques of staining, isolating, and characterizing bacteria. Additionally, numerous self-designed investigative labs are an integral part of the laboratory experience. Prerequisite: Biology core or consent. 4
Virology (BIOL-316). Virology is a course that will examine the diversity of plant, animal, and bacterial viruses. Emphasis will be placed on topics such as molecular interactions between the host and virus, the genetics and chemical nature of viruses, and the replication strategies of viruses. This course also will examine how viruses cause disease, how they are used in biotechnology, and their overall impact on society. The structure of the course will provide peer learning activities, class discussions of primary literature, and traditional lectures. The structure of the laboratory will allow students to develop and test their own hypotheses while learning bacteriophage and tissue culture techniques. Prerequisite: Biology core or consent. Virology qualifies as a "diversity" course for the major. 4
Plant Systematics (BIOL-320). In Plant Systematics students learn how major groups of vascular plants are classified, named, and identified. We study approximately 50 plant families in detail including tropical and temperate representatives (using living plant material whenever possible), learn how to use keys and floras to identify local species, and learn how to find information about plants in traditional and electronic sources. Understanding evolutionary relationships among the families studied is a central theme. This course provides important background for students planning to do fieldwork in ecology, plant-animal interactions, environmental education, and related subjects. Prerequisite: Biology core or consent. Plant Systematics qualifies as "diversity" course for the major. 4
Plant Ecology (BIOL-321). In this course we will explore how plants interact with their environments and with other organisms, including man. We will begin at the individual level, learning how plants obtain resources from abiotic sources and through mutualistic interactions with bacteria and fungi. We will also consider how the theories of plant community ecology developed in the early 20th century and why they are pertinent today. Students will also have the opportunity to read and critique primary literature from leading journals in the field. Finally, we will develop several projects to be completed at the Denison Biological Reserve during the term for lab projects. These projects will be student-inspired and driven, with the hopes that they will contribute to our understanding of our immediate surroundings at Denison. 4
Developmental Biology (BIOL-324). Every multicellular organism begins its life as a single cell. Developmental biology is the study of the progression from this single cell to a complex, multicellular organism. Recently the powerful tools of molecular biology have linked the fields of embryology and genetics to reveal how cells, tissues, organs, and organisms develop. Especially striking is the conservation of molecules and mechanisms that underlie developmental processes in different organisms. This course provides an overview of the major features of early embryonic development in animals, and the mechanisms (molecular mechanism when known) that underlie them. We focus on two major aspects of developmental biology: (1) How is the basic body plan established? How does the basic organization of the embryo arise from the fertilized egg? What are the cellular mechanisms underlying morphogenesis and the appearance of pattered structures in the embryo? (2) How do parts become different in the embryo? Prerequisite: Biology core or consent. 4
Genetics (BIOL-325). This course provides a detailed and up-to-date understanding of genetics, an appreciation of how genetics affects our lives everyday from the supermarket to the doctor's office, and a realization of the applications of genetics to virtually every discipline of biology. We focus on three major areas of genetics: (1) Molecular genetics: Thinking about genetics on the DNA level - everything from DNA sequencing to mutagen testing. (2) Mendelian genetics: Thinking about genetics on the gene level-everything from inheritance to recombinational mapping. (3) The application of both molecular and Mendelian genetics to study biological processes. We start by seeing how genetic techniques can be used to dissect almost any biological process and end up answering questions such as: How does genetic disease screening work? How are genes cloned from complex organisms such as mice or even humans? How does gene therapy work? In the laboratory we carry out both molecular experiments and classical genetic experiments. Prerequisite: Biology core or consent. 4
Plant Evolution and Reproduction (BIOL-326). In this course we will explore the evolutionary relationships and histories among the major groups of plants, both terrestrial and aquatic. We will pay particular attention to their modes of reproduction and the structures that facilitate gamete production and dispersal. We will learn how plant physiology and developmental mechanisms have allowed taxa to persist or make major transitions among different environments over time. Class reading material will consist of the primary literature and will be presented by students every week. For the laboratory component we will have one overnight trip to the Hocking Hills on a weekend in September to examine and identify plants in their natural habitat, as well as shorter trips to Blackhand Gorge and the Dawes Arboretum. We will also plan together and complete a semester-long project on the effects of environment on the development of reproductive structures in the model plant, Arabidopsis thaliana. 4
Biology of Insects (BIOL-327). In this course we will explore the world of insects and their interactions with other species. Our central focus will be to survey insect diversity and explore how various orders, families, and species are adapted through evolution to their specific environment. But we will also use that diversity as a lens through which we will examine major concepts in biology. Topics of discussion will be drawn from readings in Nature, Science, and the primary literature will include the following: plant-insect coevolution, mating systems, anti-predator defenses, eusocial behavior, parasitism, disease transmittance, insect conservation, and control of agricultural pests. Laboratory will include field studies of insects at the Denison University Biological Reserve and the preparation of a collection. Prerequisite: Biology core or consent. Biology of Insects qualifies as a "diversity" course for the major. 4
Evolutionary Developmental Biology (BIOL-333). Evolutionary developmental biology (or "evo-devo") is an exciting interdisciplinary field of research that seeks to understand how developmental mechanisms have evolved to produce differences in the anatomy, physiology, and behavior of organisms. This course will begin with an overview of basic concepts in developmental biology. Students will then learn about the genes responsible for specific processes and examine the functional consequence of changes in their expression during embryonic development. (For example, students will learn about the genes that regulate eye development in vertebrates, and then examine how changes in their expression have led to organisms with different types of eyes, or no eyes at all!) In lab, students will conduct a semester-long project designed to provide insight into the process by which biologists explore the evolution of developmental mechanisms. In particular, the project will involve cloning genes and analyzing their DNA sequences using a variety of bioinformatic tools. 4
Animal Physiology (BIOL-334). This course is a comparative study of how animals perform their life-sustaining functions. We'll use a wide variety of animal examples to explore the physiology of metabolism, thermoregulation, muscles, and the cardiovascular, respiratory, and osmoregulatory systems. This course will examine the adaptive significance of physiological traits at the molecular, tissue, organ and whole organism level. In addition, it will stress the ways that physiology and ecology interact, currently and over evolutionary time. Students will participate in several course labs and then design their own physiology experiments. Prerequisite: Biology core or consent. 4
Human Physiology (BIOL-335). In this course we will examine the physiology and anatomy of the major systems of the human body, including the cardiovascular, nervous, muscular, endocrine, renal, and reproductive systems. We will study how the body functions to sustain life and maintain homeostasis from the level of single cells up to multi- organ systems. The course will also incorporate discussions of disease processes when the body fails to function as it should. Students will participate in lab exercises examining the function of their own human bodies and will design their own physiology experiments. 4
Animal Behavior (BIOL-340). In this course we study the proximate and ultimate causes of animal behavior from an evolutionary perspective. Topics include the genetic, developmental and neural bases of behavior as well as behavioral strategies of habitat choice, foraging, defense, courtship, parental care and sociality. The laboratory will include several multi-week experiments designed to test hypotheses concerning behaviors observed in the field and lab. There will be a strong emphasis on data analysis and interpretation, and use of the primary literature. Prerequisite: Biology core or consent. 4
Immunology (BIOL-341). This course is a study of concepts in immunology, focusing on the cellular and molecular aspects of the immune system in humans and other animal models. We will delve into subjects allowing students to understand the fascinating and complex mechanisms with which our immune systems defend our bodies against a constant barrage of infectious microorganisms. Topics covered include immune cell development and function, specific and non-specific immune responses to infection, immunogenetics, vaccination, and clinical disorders of the immune system such as allergies, immunodeficiency diseases, and autoimmunity.Laboratory exercises will utilize immunological techniques to address questions pertaining to the molecular function and specificity of the immune system. Prerequisite: Biology core or consent. 4
Eukaryotic Cell Biology (BIOL-345). This course will be an in-depth examination of fundamental cellular functions, with an emphasis on how disturbances in these functions lead to disease. Areas covered in the course include intracellular trafficking, cytoskeleton and cell motility, adhesion, signal transduction, cell cycle, and apoptosis. Laboratories will involve learning current methods to analyze biological processes in cells. Prerequisite: Biology core or consent. 4
Introduction to Neurophysiology (BIOL-349). We will use neurophysiology and neuroanatomy to understand the links between molecules, cells, systems, and ultimately behavior. The course will start with an exploration of neurons and signaling within and among cells. We will then examine some sensory and motor systems. The last portion of the course will examine the whole animal in a neurophysiological context. The classroom portion of the course consists of lectures, discussion of the text and of research articles, problem sets, analysis of case studies, and other activities. The laboratory component will involve a mixture of behavioral, anatomical, and physiological studies on vertebrate and invertebrate animals, electronic modeling of nerve circuits, and computer simulations of nerve activity. This will culminate in a class project (topic TBA) that will investigate some question in sensory biology from multiple perspectives. The labs are designed to introduce students to some fundamental neurophysiological techniques and to a variety of study organisms, and to strengthen experimental design and analysis skills. Prerequisite: Biology core or consent. 4
Ornithology (BIOL-356). Ornithology is the study of birds. We will be investigating their evolutionary origins, adaptations for form and function, ecology, and systematics. A strong field and laboratory component will focus on learning the characteristics of the major groups found in the United States. We will also use the primary literature to guide our inquiry into the basic biology and ecology of birds. Ornithology qualifies as a "diversity" course for the major. (Fall 2008) 4
Directed Study (BIOL-361). A research problem (library or laboratory) which provides the opportunity for the qualified student to extend his or her interest beyond the limits of particular course offerings. Does not count toward minimal departmental requirements. 1-4
Directed Study (BIOL-362). A research problem (library or laboratory) which provides the opportunity for the qualified student to extend his or her interest beyond the limits of particular course offerings. Does not count toward minimal departmental requirements. 1-4
Independent Study (BIOL-363). 1-4
Independent Study (BIOL-364). 1-4
Conservation Biology (BIOL-370). Conservation Biology requires the broad use of biological disciplines such as ecology, physiology, genetics, and animal behavior, as well as appreciation of policy issues, to understand and manage biodiversity. In this course, students will learn how to apply these biological tools for the purpose of defining and maintaining biodiversity at many scales. We will also cover human impacts on biodiversity, as well as the link between science and policy in protection efforts. This course will emphasize critical reading of primary literature as well as gaining hands-on experiences with population modeling, and measuring and monitoring local biodiversity. Prerequisites: Biology core or consent. (Not offered 2008-2009) 4
Population and Community Ecology (BIOL-375). In this course, we will examine 1) how populations and communities are structured, 2) how populations and communities change over time, and 3) how populations and communities are influenced by their environment or ecological context. An emphasis will be placed on using primary literature and on doing ecology in the field and lab. Prerequisite: Biology core or consent. This course satisfies the Oral Communication requirement. (Not offered 2008-2009) 4
Evolutionary Biology (BIOL-380). This course builds on BIOL 202 and completes an in-depth survey of evolutionary theory with emphasis on processes that drive organismal change. We examine how molecular technology has impacted the study of evolutionary processes, and how new methods of analysis are changing the study of population genetics,phylogeny construction, adaptive radiation, etc. Reading of primary and secondary scientific literature is stressed. Through the course, emphasis is placed on integration of all biological disciplines under the paradigm of evolution. Prerequisite: Biology core. 4
Advanced Topics in Biology (BIOL-399). A general category used only in the evaluation of transfer credit. 1-4
Advanced Biochemistry (BIOL-401). This is a topical course the content of which will vary from year to year. In general, a detailed look at a variety of recent biochemical topics will be examined through readings of the primary literature. Laboratory will offer an in-depth semester long research experience. May be counted as an advanced elective toward the major in Biology. Prerequisite: Biology core and BIOL 302. 4
Senior Research (BIOL-451). For seniors desiring to work on an advanced research problem. Biology 451 is to be taken if no previous work on the specific research project has been accomplished. Students with prior, substantial experience on their research project (such as a summer research experience with a Denison faculty member) may petition to move directly into Biology 452. Prior consent of the advising faculty is required for registration. The grade is determined by the advisor. Completion of Biology 451 does not fulfill an upper-level biology course requirement for the major. 4
Advanced Senior Research (BIOL-452). For seniors working on an advanced research problem. Following the completion of a substantial research experience, such as Biology 451 or a summer research experience with a Denison faculty member, students may take Biology 452. Prior consent of the advising faculty is required for registration. The grade is determined by the advisor. Completion of Biology 452 fulfills one upper- level biology course requirement for the major. 4
Honors Research (BIOL-461). Through petition, Senior Research (Biology 451) can be converted to Honors Research (Biology 461). Honors Research serves as a partial fulfillment for Honors. For seniors desiring to work on an advanced research problem. Biology 461 is to be taken if no previous work on the specific research project has been accomplished. Students with prior, substantial experience on their research project (such as a summer research experience with a Denison faculty member) may petition to move directly into Biology 462. Prior consent of the advising faculty is required for registration. The grade is determined by the advisor. Completion of Biology 461 does not fulfill an upper-level biology course requirement for the major. 4
Advanced Honors Research (BIOL-462). Through petition, Advanced Senior Research (Biology 452) can be converted to Advanced Honors Research (Biology 462). Advanced Honors Research serves as a partial fulfillment for Honors. For seniors working on an advanced research problem. Following the completion of a substantial research experience, such as Biology 461 or a summer research experience with a Denison faculty member, students may take Biology 462. Prior consent of the faculty is required for registration. The grade is determined by the advisor. Completion of Biology 452 fulfills one upper-level biology course requirement for the major. 4